The Hidden Risk of 1099 Athletic Training

The Hidden Risk of 1099 Athletic Training

The interstate compact may expose one of the biggest gray areas in athletic training:

👉 Independent contractor classification.

A lot of PRN/event AT work historically functions through:

▪️flat rates

▪️gig-style staffing

▪️last-minute assignments

▪️nationwide coverage models

▪️and independent contractor agreements

But healthcare is heavily regulated.

And once interstate practice expands, scrutiny may increase around:

▪️worker classification

▪️payroll withholding

▪️state labor laws

▪️supervision

▪️standing orders

▪️and control of work

Questions that may become more important:

▪️Who provides medical direction?

▪️Who controls clinical decisions?

▪️Who provides supplies?

▪️Who dictates scheduling?

▪️Who determines removal from play?

▪️Is the AT truly independent?

Because legally calling someone a “1099 contractor” does not automatically make it compliant.

The more athletic training expands into:

▪️nationwide staffing

▪️interstate mobility

▪️and healthcare delivery models

…the more the profession may encounter the same labor issues already seen in:

▪️nursing

▪️physical therapy

▪️travel healthcare

▪️and the gig economy.

The interstate compact could become more than a licensure discussion.

It may become an employment model discussion too.

DISCLAIMER - This is not legal or tax advice. Every state has different laws and requirements. Please seek a tax professional for more support and information.

This is a conversation I think the profession needs to start having more openly.